The Suns' Fourth-Quarter Dilemma: A Case for Booker Over Green
There’s something about the final minutes of a basketball game that separates the contenders from the pretenders. It’s not just about skill—it’s about strategy, trust, and knowing who your closer is. Recently, ESPN NBA analyst Iman Shumpert sparked a debate that’s been simmering among Suns fans: should Phoenix rely more on Devin Booker and less on Jalen Green in the fourth quarter? Personally, I think this question goes beyond just shot selection—it’s about identity, consistency, and the psychology of winning.
Why Booker Should Be the Go-To Guy
Let’s start with the numbers, though I’ll admit, stats only tell part of the story. Last season, Green attempted more shots than Booker in the fourth quarter, averaging 4.0 attempts to Booker’s 4.0 (over fewer games). But here’s the kicker: Green shot a dismal 29.2% in those moments, while Booker hit 50%. What makes this particularly fascinating is that despite Booker’s efficiency, the Suns seemed to default to Green in crunch time. In my opinion, this isn’t just a coaching decision—it’s a reflection of a team still searching for its identity.
What many people don’t realize is that Booker isn’t just a scorer; he’s the Suns’ primary playmaker. This dual role might explain why he took fewer shots in the fourth, but it also raises a deeper question: are the Suns sacrificing their best weapon by not letting him shoot more? If you take a step back and think about it, relying on a player who shoots under 30% in clutch moments is a recipe for inconsistency.
The Green Conundrum
Now, let’s talk about Jalen Green. He’s a talented player, no doubt, but his fourth-quarter struggles are hard to ignore. A detail that I find especially interesting is that even during his healthiest stretch last season, when he played 17 games from March to April, he still averaged more shot attempts than Booker in the fourth. What this really suggests is that the Suns were giving him the green light, but he wasn’t delivering.
From my perspective, this isn’t about doubting Green’s potential—it’s about recognizing that he’s not the closer the Suns need right now. Teams that thrive in the postseason have a clear go-to player in crunch time. Think LeBron James, Stephen Curry, or Kawhi Leonard. The Suns don’t have that luxury yet, and it’s costing them.
The Broader Implications
Shumpert’s commentary touches on something bigger: the Suns’ lack of a defined identity. Last season, they needed two play-in games to reach the playoffs as the eighth seed. That’s not the profile of a championship contender. What this really suggests is that Phoenix is still figuring out who they are as a team.
One thing that immediately stands out is the contrast between the Suns and teams like the Warriors or Celtics. Those franchises know exactly who’s taking the last shot. The Suns, on the other hand, seem to be playing a game of musical chairs in the fourth quarter. This uncertainty isn’t just a tactical issue—it’s a psychological one. Players need to know their roles, especially when the pressure is on.
Looking Ahead: Summer League Bright Spots
While the fourth-quarter debate dominates the conversation, there are some silver linings for the Suns. Khaman Maluach, for instance, has been a revelation in the Summer League. Averaging 19.5 points and 12.7 rebounds while shooting 40% from three? That’s the kind of two-way impact every team dreams of. Personally, I think Maluach is a player to watch—he’s got the skills and the mindset to make a real difference.
Rasheer Fleming’s breakout performance against the Pistons is another highlight. Scoring 22 points and grabbing eight rebounds while defending full-court? That’s the kind of hustle and versatility that can elevate a team. And let’s not forget Koa Peat, who bounced back from a scary fall to finish the game strong. These young players are showing promise, but they’re not the solution to the Suns’ fourth-quarter woes.
Final Thoughts
If the Suns want to compete at the highest level, they need to make a clear decision: Devin Booker should be their closer. It’s not just about his stats—it’s about his ability to create under pressure, his efficiency, and his experience. Jalen Green has potential, but right now, he’s not the answer in crunch time.
What this really suggests is that the Suns are at a crossroads. They can either continue to experiment and hope for the best, or they can commit to a strategy that maximizes their best player’s strengths. In my opinion, the choice is clear. The question is, will they make it?
As we head into the new season, I’ll be watching closely to see how this plays out. One thing’s for sure: the Suns have the talent to be great, but they need to figure out how to use it. And that starts with trusting Devin Booker when it matters most.
